Addressing the Issue of cultural conflicts faced by African Marriages in Diaspora is indeed a commendable thing. In fact, it is long overdue. Reference need be made to some efforts that have been made so far and continues to be made through theater and film (Nollywood) especially through the TV Series titled CULTURES Starring Chika Okpala (Chief Zebrudaya). CULTURES takes a dramatic look at the subject with a plot built around an Ibo Chief who brings an Ibo wife to his Ibo Nephew in America after the Nephew has been too long in America. Many would relate to while others would learn from the conflict of cultures that ensues. More on CULTURES TV Series is available at: www.CulturesTVSeries.com

Igbo Marriage: The Culture Wars Within!

On behalf of the Igbo Marriage Book Project, I’m elated to announce that the group has reached a milestone in its work on the book to save Igbo marriage, billed for public presentation on June 23, 2012 in Philadelphia, PA. After a year-long reflection and debate, the group has agreed on the title of the book: Igbo Marriage: The Culture Wars Within!

As we talked to a number of you, conducted surveys, held conferences, pored through a mass of literature and more, it became more and more clear that the problems experienced in Igbo marriages in the United States reflect the conflict between our heritage culture and the host culture. There is a war of the cultures going on inside every one of us, as married couples and as a community. In reaction to this war, we are constantly making adjustments, as the war within intensifies. Many times, it’s an unconscious war but we are nevertheless oblivious of it. Those who have problems adjusting to the outcome of this war have the most troubles in their marriages. So, many of the tensions in the marriages that we studied were, in the main, environmentally or culturally-driven. Mediated only by certain factors, this war within exerts similar influences on all immigrants, not just the Igbo.

Our book draws attention to this war and how people can adjust to it and save their marriages. I know that you’re as anxious as I am to see it in the market. Please, let’s be patient until June 23. If you’re able, please attend the presentation ceremony in Philadelphia, PA. See below for details.

PEF Dinner – Saturday, June 23, 2012
On the Plate!
· Art Exhibition, by Amachi Studios
· Book Presentation – To Save Igbo Marriage
· Opportunity to do Good – promote early education in Igbo land
· Lots of Food – good, authentic African cuisines.
· Good music, to be provided by the one and only DJ Jeph, Live & Direct!